Discover breathtaking landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and the best places to stay in the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, US!
Vacationers frequently begin in Gatlinburg and travel to one of the park’s well-known pathways, where they can find whatever they’re looking for.
A stroll through the Great Smoky Mountains, whether on the Appalachian Trail, a wildflower walk, or a visit to one of the many waterfalls, will leave you with a smile and a lasting memory.
Because the experience changes with the seasons, there is always a fresh setting to discover.
There is always a new scene to discover because the experience varies from season to season.
1. Introduction to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
It is the largest protected area in the eastern United States and the most visited national park in the country, spanning over 522,000 acres.
In 2023 alone, more than 12 million people visited the park to see the mist-covered mountains, lush woods, and rich fauna.
But what makes this park special? It offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and easily accessible outdoor sports.
Whether you’re a hiker seeking panoramic vistas, a photographer catching colorful fall foliage, or a family looking for a memorable camping experience, the Smokies provide something for everyone.
About It
| Category | Details |
| Established | June 15, 1934 |
| Total Area | 522,419 acres |
| Highest Peak | Clingmans Dome (6,643 feet) |
| Main Attractions | Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, Laurel Falls |
| Number of Trails | 150+ trails spanning 800+ miles |
| Wildlife Species | 65 mammal species, 200+ bird species |
| Entry Fee | Free (though parking fees apply) |
| Phone | +1 865-436-1200 |
2. Where is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Are you curious about which city the Great Smoky Mountains are located in?
Although the park itself is not located in a single city, its attractions are easily accessible from several gateway towns.
The park is located near these locations and spans eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina on the US map.
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Frequently regarded as the park’s main entry, Gatlinburg is a bustling mountain town full of attractions, places to eat, and places to stay.
- The city of Bryson, North Carolina: Bryson City is the ideal entrance for those looking for a more tranquil getaway because it is calmer and more relaxed. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, a picturesque train excursion through the mountains, is also located there.
- North Carolina’s Cherokee: Cherokee, a city rich in Native American history, is a center of culture where guests may tour the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and take part in storytelling and traditional crafts.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is ideally situated for weekend getaways and longer vacations. It is conveniently accessible from large cities like Asheville, Knoxville, and Charlotte due to its dual-state location.
3. Best Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Let’s explore the top attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
1. Hiking Adventures
The park is well known for its various paths, including moderate strolls and strenuous backcountry routes. Two must-hike trails are as follows:
Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest elevation at 6,643 feet, provides stunning sweeping vistas. The difficult but worthwhile half-mile paved route leads to the observation tower. You can see up to 100 kilometers out on clear days!
The Alum Cave Trail
Geological wonders, wide views, and lush woodlands may all be found along this 4.6-mile round-trip walk. The main attraction is the Alum Cave Bluffs, a huge concave bluff that makes a fantastic place to sit and take pictures. If you’re up for a lengthier hike, go on to Mount LeConte.
2. Scenic Drives
You can still enjoy the park’s splendor from your car if trekking isn’t your thing. Two famous routes highlight the beauty of the Smokies:
Cades Cove Loop
This 11-mile, one-way loop traverses a charming valley encircled by mountains. Churches, old cabins, and possibly even some animals, such as black bears and deer, will be visible along the route.
Newfound Gap road
This 33-mile road, which links Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with Cherokee, North Carolina, has many pullouts with breathtaking vistas. President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the park there in 1940, and a visit to Newfound Gap itself offers a panoramic view.
3. Observing Wildlife
There is an amazing diversity of species in the park. Bring a camera and binoculars so you can see:
- Elk: The Cataloochee Valley is the best place to watch these magnificent animals, which are most active at dawn and evening.
- Black Bears: The park is home to about 1,500 bears, so you may get a sight of one, but always stay well away!
- Wildflowers: Known as the “Wildflower National Park,” the Smoky Mountains are home to more than 1,500 different kinds of flowering plants. Vibrant blossoms along roadsides and trails are most noticeable in the spring and summer.
4. Chasing Waterfalls
The park’s main attraction is its waterfalls, several of which may be reached by short hikes. Don’t overlook these stunning falls:
The Laurel Falls
The hike, which is 2.6 miles round-trip, ends at an 80-foot waterfall. The falls themselves are breathtaking, and the paved trail makes it a family-friendly choice.
The Abrams Falls
This 20-foot waterfall, which is well-known for its strong flow and tranquil lake below, is reached after a moderate 5-mile round-trip climb in Cades Cove. Before returning, it’s the ideal place to unwind and have a snack.
5. Stargazing and Camping
Nothing compares to sleeping beneath the stars in the middle of the Smoky Mountains. Front-country campgrounds, backcountry campgrounds, and even group camps are available in the park.
- Elkmont Campground: Located among hiking trails and the historic Elkmont region, this campground is among the most well-liked.
- Stargazing: The park provides excellent stargazing chances with less light pollution. The best places to see the Milky Way are Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove.
4. Best Places to Stay in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Let’s go over the top lodging choices, such as comfortable cabins and picturesque campgrounds, which can be the ideal getaway in the Smoky Mountains.
Elk Hollow Resort
Elk Hollow Resort’s genuine Safari Tents allow you to enjoy the pinnacle of luxury. tucked away in the natural world, surrounded by stunning mountains.
- These lavish lodgings blend a five-star hotel’s luxury with camping’s natural charm.
- From our luxurious, metal-roofed yurts, explore the highlands’ beauty on a thrilling adventure tour.
At a Glance
| Accommodation | There are safari tents, yurts, and cabins to seep in nature during the whole day. |
| Experience | Imagine a place that makes you feel your experience is all that matters. Every visitor will have a memorable experience and stay. |
| Amenities | Hot TubFire PitFull KitchenFree Wifi |
| Address | 74 Elk Hollow, Bryson City, NC 28713, United States Get Direction |
| Phone no | +1 678-468-9182 |
| Price | Starting at $250 |
Lakeview at Fontana
The vast areas and clean mountain air provide the ideal environment for resting, decompressing, and taking a few deep breaths.
- Lakeview at Fontana, perched atop a mountainside with breathtaking views of Fontana Lake, offers the reassuring atmosphere of a sleepy Mediterranean community.
- It’s the ideal escape—think Airbnb meets luxury spa—with the perfect balance of a self-sufficient, “unhosted” stay and resort-style amenities right at your door.
At a Glance
| Accommodation | Savor an expansive, two-person stand-alone tub while admiring the breathtaking view of Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains from a private cabana perched atop a tree. |
| Experience | This is the calling for people who enjoy the great outdoors, the natural world, and basic pleasures. |
| Amenities | PoolSpaHikingFree ParkingPets AllowedFree Wifi |
| Address | 171 Lakeview Lodge Dr, Bryson City, NC 28713, United States Get Direction |
| Phone no | +1 800-742-6492 |
| Price | Starting at $229 |
Great Smokys Cabin Rentals: Pet-Friendly Cottages in the Smoky Mountains
This firm offers a variety of pet-friendly cottages with spacious yards for pets to run around, all conveniently located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
- The cottages can accommodate both large and small parties due to their varying sizes.
- Many of them are conveniently located next to hiking trails, making it easy for dog owners to enjoy daily walks in the woods with their furry companions.
At a Glance
| Address | 1181 Main St, Bryson City, NC 28713, United States Get Direction |
| Phone no | +1 828-488-4630 |
| Price | Starting at $180 |
Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground: A Pet-Friendly Retreat in Nature
This campground, which is surrounded by a forest and has lots of outside room for pets to play, is another fantastic place for pet owners.
- The campground is a tranquil place to relax in nature with your pet and offers quick access to neighboring streams and trails.
At a Glance
| Address | 755 E Alarka Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713, United States Get Direction |
| Phone no | +1 828-488-3672 |
| Price | Starting at $45 |
Firefly Campground: Your Serene Escape
This is a small portion of heaven for us! This campsite is where my wife spent her childhood summers, and our family was able to buy the land in February 2023.
- There are nine sites at our campground, each with amenities for electricity, water, and sewer. We have five of our sites right on Deep Creek.
- If you’re not into camping, consider making a reservation for one of our cottages. Every cottage has special qualities all its own.
At a Glance
| Address | 170 Ashe Ln, Bryson City, NC 28713, United States Get Direction |
| Price | Starting at $70 |
5. Entrances & Access Points to the Great Smoky Mountains
Knowing the primary entrances and access points is critical for arranging your visit and maximizing your time experiencing this natural beauty.
1. North Carolina Entrances
Oconaluftee Entrance (Cherokee, NC)
The Oconaluftee entrance is the primary gateway to the park from North Carolina, located near the town of Cherokee.
- It provides access to the scenic Newfound Gap Road (US-441), which winds through the mountains, offering stunning overlooks and connecting to the Tennessee side of the park.
- The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is a great first stop, with exhibits, a bookstore, and helpful park rangers.
- The nearby Mountain Farm Museum showcases historic buildings and traditional Appalachian farming techniques.
- Free parking is available at the visitor center, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. No shuttle service is available from this entrance.
Deep Creek Entrance (Bryson City, North Carolina)
Deep Creek is a quieter entrance on the park’s southern side, famed for its picturesque waterfalls and excellent tubing options.
- Activities include waterfall walks to Juney Whank Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Tom Branch Falls. Tubing down the creek is a popular summer activity.
- There is ample parking near the trailhead, and private shuttle services in Bryson City provide transportation for tubers.
2. Tennessee entrances
Sugarlands Entrance (Gatlinburg, Tennessee)
The Sugarlands gate is the most popular access point, located just outside of bustling Gatlinburg. It’s ideal for first-time tourists who desire easy access to trails and picturesque drives.
- The Sugarlands Visitor Center features informational exhibits, maps, and a short nature trail.
- Nearby attractions include Cataract Falls, Laurel Falls Trail, and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
- The parking lot is large, but it fills up quickly. Gatlinburg’s trolley system offers a convenient shuttle service.
Townsend Entrance (Townsend, Tennessee)
This entry dubbed the “peaceful side of the Smokies,” is less congested and provides access to Cades Cove, one of the park’s most popular sites.
- Townsend Visitor Center provides area information and recommendations for touring Cades Cove.
- The 11-mile Cades Cove Loop is ideal for wildlife observation and historical site visits.
- Parking is provided, however, Cades Cove has a limited capacity. There is no official transport, but bicycle rentals are available.
3. Lesser-Known Access Points
Big Creek Entrance (Waterville, NC)
This modest entrance leads to calmer paths and backcountry campsites.
- Trails include Big Creek Trail, Mouse Creek Falls, and Midnight Hole.
- The parking is a small lot with limited spaces. No shuttles.
Cataloochee Valley Entrance (Waynesville, NC)
Cataloochee Valley is a hidden gem with ancient structures and a healthy elk population.
- Elks are frequently observed at dawn and dusk.
- You can see preserved nineteenth-century structures and churches.
- It is a gravel road with limited parking; and no shuttle service.
6. A Brief History of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains date back more than 200 million years. The clash of tectonic plates created towering peaks and lush valleys, which eroded into the rounded, mist-covered mountains we see today.
The park’s trademark haze, which inspired its name, is generated by the discharge of volatile organic compounds from dense trees, enhancing the landscape’s ethereal splendor.
The notion of establishing a national park in the Smokies originated in the early twentieth century. As industrial logging threatened the ancient woods, conservationists and local people banded together to defend the area.
Horace Kephart and Ann Davis were prominent advocates for preservation. In 1934, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was officially established.
Native American Heritage
Long before the park was established, the Cherokee people considered the Smoky Mountains sacred.
The Cherokee named the location “Shaconage,” which means “place of blue smoke.” They lived in tune with the land, using its resources for food, medicine, and spiritual practice.
The Oconaluftee region, which is now a visitor center, was once a bustling Cherokee community.
The Cherokee were forcibly removed during the Trail of Tears in the 1830s, leaving a devastating legacy on the region’s history.
However, other Cherokee resisted relocation, hiding in the harsh highlands before creating the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, who still live in the area today. Their culture, traditions, and stories continue to influence the park’s identity.
Appalachian Settlers and Mountain Culture
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, European immigrants came to the Smokies and established small, self-sufficient villages.
They built log houses, farmed the land, and created a distinct Appalachian culture rich in song, storytelling, and craftsmanship.
Visitors can see vestiges of these early communities, such as restored homesteads and grist mills, which provide a window into the past.
The park preserves old structures, like those in Cades Cove and Cataloochee Valley, to highlight mountain families’ tenacity and creativity.
Their music, which incorporated Scottish, Irish, and African influences, established the groundwork for modern bluegrass and country music, and it can still be heard in the mountains today.
The Park Today: Preserving History and Nature
Great Smoky Mountains National Park now covers more than 500,000 acres and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, known for its ecological significance and cultural legacy.
The park’s 850 miles of trails, which include sections of the Appalachian Trail, entice visitors to discover cascading waterfalls, panoramic panoramas, and hidden historical sites.
8. Travel Tips for Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long adventure, these suggestions will help you get the most out of your trip.
The best time to visit
- Fall Foliage: The peak season for fall colors is late September to early November. The brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows create a beautiful landscape, particularly along picturesque routes such as Clingmans Dome Road and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Spring Wildflowers: From April to June, more than 1,500 flowering plant species decorate the park in vibrant colors. The annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage provides guided hikes and expert-led tours.
- Summer Adventures: June through August are wonderful months for waterfall hikes and family activities. Expect warm weather and people, particularly around Cades Cove and Laurel Falls.
- Winter Serenity: From December to February, there are fewer visitors and snow-covered summits. While upper heights may be icy, lower pathways and historic houses provide a serene and quiet atmosphere.
Packing Tips for Various Seasons
- Spring and summer: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, good hiking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a rain jacket.
- Fall: Layers for changing weather, a fleece jacket, gloves, and a hat for cool mornings.
- Winter: Winter essentials include insulated clothes, waterproof boots, thermal layers, and traction gear for ice trails.
Year-round essentials include reusable water bottles, trail munchies, a first-aid kit, park maps, and binoculars for spotting wildlife.
Safety & wildlife guidelines
- Bear Safety: The Smokies are home to black bears. Maintain a safe distance (at least 50 yards), avoid feeding wildlife, and store food in bear-proof containers.
- Trail Safety: Stay on recognized paths, notify someone of your schedule, and carry a map or GPS device. Cell service is limited in many regions.
- Weather Awareness: Weather can change quickly, particularly at higher elevations. Check predictions and be ready for surprise storms.
Conclusion | Great Smoky Mountains National Park US
Planning your Smoky Mountains vacation allows you to immerse yourself in nature’s magnificence, with infinite trails, stunning wildlife, and breathtaking views.
Whether you’re exploring Clingmans Dome, trekking to waterfalls, or relaxing in Cades Cove, every minute in this iconic national park is an opportunity to create memories.
Elk Hollow Resort is the ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Elk Hollow is the ideal base camp for your Smoky Mountains holiday, offering magnificent accommodations, modern conveniences, and convenient access to the park’s most popular attractions.
Book your vacation at Elk Hollow Resort today and start making memories for a lifetime.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park US FAQs
1. Where is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park located?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. Major gateway towns include Gatlinburg, TN, Bryson City, NC, and Cherokee, NC.
2. What are the most popular attractions in the park?
Some must-visit spots include Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Laurel Falls, Abrams Falls, and the Alum Cave Trail. The park also offers scenic drives like the Cades Cove Loop and Newfound Gap Road.
3. Do I need a permit or pass to enter the park?
No entrance fee is required to visit the park. However, there is a parking fee if you plan to leave your vehicle in designated areas.
4. What are the best hiking trails in the Smokies?
Popular trails include:
- Clingmans Dome Trail – Short but steep, leading to breathtaking mountain views.
- Alum Cave Trail – A moderate hike with stunning geological formations.
- Deep Creek Trails – Features three scenic waterfalls in a short loop.
5. Can I see wildlife in the park?
Yes! The park is home to black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and more than 200 bird species. The best places to spot wildlife are Cades Cove and Cataloochee Valley, especially at dawn or dusk.
6. What are the best times to visit the park?
- Fall (Sept–Nov): Peak season for stunning autumn foliage.
- Spring (April–June): Ideal for wildflower blooms and waterfalls.
- Summer (June–Aug): Great for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Fewer crowds and snow-covered peaks for a peaceful visit.
7. Where can I stay near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
There are many options, including:
- Luxury stays: Elk Hollow Resort (Bryson City)
- Mountain retreats: Lakeview at Fontana
- Pet-friendly cabins: Great Smokys Cabin Rentals
- Budget camping: Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground
8. What are the main park entrances?
The most commonly used entrances are:
- Sugarlands Entrance (Gatlinburg, TN) – The busiest access point.
- Oconaluftee Entrance (Cherokee, NC) – Best for scenic drives and history.
- Deep Creek Entrance (Bryson City, NC) – Ideal for waterfalls and tubing.
9. Are there any scenic drives in the park?
Yes, some of the most beautiful scenic routes include:
- Cades Cove Loop (11 miles) – A historic valley with wildlife sightings.
- Newfound Gap Road (33 miles) – Panoramic views linking TN and NC.
10. What safety tips should I follow while visiting?
- Stay on designated trails and carry a map.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially bears.
- Pack layers and check weather conditions before hiking.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
